KPI — October 2023: Recent Vehicle Recalls
2020-2022 Ford Explorer
Vehicles Affected: Ford is recalling more than 238,300 model-year 2020-2022 Explorers.
The Problem: The rear-axle horizontal mounting bolt may fracture and cause the driveshaft to disconnect. According to the automaker, such disconnection can result in a loss of drive power or a rollaway if the parking brake is not applied, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
The Fix: Dealers will replace the sub-frame bushing and rear-axle bolt. They also will inspect the rear-axle cover for impairment near the location of the bolt hole and replace it with a new cover if damage is determined to be a factor. All repairs will be done as necessary and for free. Ford will begin notifying owners Nov. 6.
2022-2024 Ram 1500/2500/3500
Vehicles Affected: Ram is recalling approximately 272,900 model-year 2022-2023 1500s; 2022-2024 2500s; and 2022-2023 3500s with a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 10,000 pounds.
The Problem: The automaker says an issue with the radio software may prevent the backup camera image from displaying, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
The Fix: Dealers will update the radio software as necessary and for free. Parent company Stellantis will begin notifying owners Nov. 17.
Hyundai/Kia Recall 3 Million Vehicles
Vehicles Affected: Hyundai and Kia are recalling more than three million vehicles. Affected Hyundai vehicles include model-year 2012-2015 Accent and Azera; 2011-2015 Elantra, Genesis Coupe and Sonata Hybrid; 2013-2015 Elantra coupe and Santa Fe; 2014-2015 Equus; 2013 Santa Fe Sport; 2010-2013 Tucson; 2015 Tucson Fuel Cell; 2012-2015 Veloster; and 2010-2012 Veracruz. The Kia recall includes 2014-2016 Cadenza; 2010-2013 Forte, Forte Koup and Sportage; 2015-2018 K900; 2011-2015 Optima; 2011-2013 Optima Hybrid and Soul; 2012-2017 Rio; 2010-2011 Rondo; and 2011-2014 Sorento.
The Problem: Hyundai vehicles may experience an electrical short caused by a brake fluid leak. As such, overcurrent in the antilock braking system module may result in an engine compartment fire while parked or driving. With Kia, an engine compartment fire may occur near the hydraulic electronic control unit while driving or parked due to a short circuit resulting from excessive current. The automakers say the cause of the short circuit currently is unknown.
The Fix: Both automakers are advising owners to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the repair can be completed. Hyundai dealers will replace the ABS fuse and Kia dealers will replace the HECU fuse as necessary and for free. Owner notification letters will be sent between Nov. 14-21.
2019 Kia Sorento
Vehicles Affected: In early September, nearly 145,000 model-year 2022-2023 Kia Sorento SUVs were recalled for backup camera issues that resulted from breaking mounting clips. Now, Cars.com reports the South Korean brand is recalling nearly 83,700 model-year Sorentos for a similar issue – but with a different cause.
The Problem: The rearview camera image may not display due to water intrusion in the rear of the camera because of an error in manufacturing.
The Fix: Dealers will not only inspect the rearview camera and add waterproofing to the camera harness, but also replace the camera if necessary and for free. Kia will begin sending owner notification letters Nov. 13.
Jeep Recalls 345,000 Compass/Grand Cherokee/Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer Models
Vehicles Affected: Jeep is recalling approximately 345,000 model 2022-2023 Compass, 2021-2023 Grand Cherokee/Grand Cherokee L and 2022-2024 Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer models.
The Problem: In the Compass, the brightness level of the instrument panel cluster may not be adjustable due to incorrect software in the body control module. A dim display may not clearly show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights. The other models are impacted by a central vision park assist module software malfunction. This may prevent the rearview image from displaying when the vehicle is placed in Reverse, thereby decreasing the driver’s visibility of the rear and increasing the risk of injury or crash.
The Fix: Dealers will update software to resolve the issue. Parent company Stellantis will began notifying owners Oct. 3.
*All recall information is courtesy of Cars.com
